Diabetes, cardiovascular disease and consumption of refined carbohydrates

Type 2 diabetes is indeed an epidemic of our time, affecting approximately 15 million individuals in the US alone, or almost eight percent of the US population. Approximately 800,000 new cases were diagnosed in 2000, and worldwide, the number of people with diabetes is expected to rise from 135 million in 1995 to 300 million in 2025.

Many do not know they have it until they’ve been properly tested. High intake of refined carbohydrates enhances the formation of VLDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol,” and reduces levels of HDL, the “good cholesterol.”

Many metabolic studies have shown that high-carbohydrate diets increase levels of fasting triglycerides as well as increase fat deposits by facilitating the conversion of excess carbohydrates to fats. High blood glucose and increased insulin output are associated with a high-carbohydrate diet and can also lead to high blood pressure as well as inflammatory responses that are predictive of increased cardiovascular disease risk and can also cause digestive disorders and general discomfort.

Another very common problem here is that people do not separate the word “refined” and end up eliminating the healthy carbohydrates from their diet. These wonderful fruits and vegetables have the phytochemicals in them that, according to UCSD School of Medicine, have cancer-curing and -preventing properties in them.

Are you eating five to nine fruits and vegetables every day? Do you suspect you have diabetes or a circulatory disorder? Have you ever been tested for it? There are simple tests available to help you take control of your health and help you focus on the weak areas in your system.

1. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only.

2. Your individual health status and any required healthcare treatments can only be properly addressed by a professional healthcare provider of your choice. Remember: there is no adequate substitution for a personal consultation with your chosen healthcare provider. Therefore, we encourage you to make your own healthcare decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.